A rainbow flag has been raised above Macclesfield Town Hall to celebrate the town’s diversity.

The multi-coloured flag - which is a symbol of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) pride - will fly throughout February as part of LGBT history month and to demonstrate Cheshire East Council’s commitment to diversity and equality.

Mark Palethorpe, acting executive director of people and chair of Cheshire East Council’s equality and diversity group, said: “We want to promote equality and diversity, valuing everyone and improving public services. “We want Cheshire East to be a place where everyone has a fair chance, free from discrimination and be able to participate in their community.

“Our aim is to make equality and diversity an integral part of the way the council works and promoting LGBT history month is just one way we are doing this.”

The flag coincides with the announcement that both Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and Cheshire Police have been named among the most progressive employers in the country.

The rainbow flag will fly above Macclesfield town hall throughout February

Both organisations have appeared in the Stonewall workplace equality index, which recognises organisations which have worked to achieved acceptance for LGBT people.

Cheshire Fire Service, which appears fourth in the list, has been the highest performing UK emergency service for the past three years.

Paul Hancock, chief fire officer, said: “On behalf of Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service I am proud and honoured that we have risen four places to fourth position.

“It is important that anyone joining our workforce knows that they can be themselves at work so they can fully commit to the important work they do for our communities.”

Cheshire Constabulary appeared 26th in the list and is the top performing police force.

The force’s senior LGBT Champion, David Bryan, has also been named as the Corporate Straight Ally of the Year at the British LGBT Awards 2017, and Positive Action HR advisor Kat Stock won Stonewall’s North West Role Model of the Year award 2017.

Cheshire East Council’s Youth Support Service is also planning to host a ‘Rainbow Day’ in August. The event will celebrate

gay pride, raise awareness and to celebrate diversity, and will feature live music throughout the day.